We have heard of the sacrilegious terror attack which took place in New Zealand, and our hearts go out to all our Muslim friends here in Edmonton and around the world.

As Jews, we know what a terrible impact religious and racist hatred can have on a person’s and on a nation’s soul. We also know the strength which comes from community, and so we are reaching out to you on this day to say: here in Edmonton we are all part of one community. We stand by you in your time of grieving, as the Muslim community stood by us when we were in grieving.

God promises us that one day “I will grant Peace in the land, and you shall lie down untroubled by anyone; I will give the land respite from vicious beasts, and no sword shall cross the land” (Leviticus, 26:6). We take this as encouragement that the path of Peace and friendship is a holy path, and we want to make sure the Muslim community knows we are with you on this journey together.

May the memory of the people whose lives were brutally taken from them, in Al Noor Mosque and in Linwood Mosque, be for a blessing.

May their families and communities find healing and the support they need.